In an interview with The Oklahoman, Jones said experience shows parks on the scale of the MAPS 3 park become more than just capital projects but are, rather, "socially, economically, culturally transformative."

"So they become catalysts for change," where a dollar invested by the public can drive four dollars in adjacent private development, she said.

At more than $130 million, the park is among the three biggest MAPS 3 projects.

Across Robinson Avenue will be the new convention center complex, with a high-rise hotel and parking. The MAPS 3 streetcar will stop near the cafe at the park's north end.